Living in Gateshead and working in Newcastle, I don’t often find myself out in Sunderland. Apart from the odd gig at The Stadium of Light, there’s not really been anything to draw me so far out on the metro line. That all changed when I was invited to visit Katie’s Garden, an amazing hidden gem in Sunderland city centre.
The Venue
Katie’s Garden is a tea room, crafting studio, shop and whimsical wonderland brought to life behind an incredibly intriguing front door. The studio space itself is a total pleasure for the senses – everywhere you turn there is something new and exciting to look at. Every spare space is crammed with something cute or crafty.
Katie’s Garden is best known for running crafting parties, which owner Rachel regularly hosts with her mother, Kathryn. They have played host to bridal showers, birthday parties and cinema clubs, so there really is something for everyone, no matter what your age!
Each season, the garden re-decorates with appropriate colours, crafts and decor. We visited for the autumn launch and found the garden full of fairy houses, autumn leaves, toadstools and gingerbread men. I even spotted some snowmen lurking on a shelf!
Crafting
We were challenged to make our own fairy house and I must admit to feeling a bit self-conscious about how good my crafting skills are! I am a creative person, but it’s still years since I have sat there with a pot of PVA and a glue stick and been asked to let my imagination run wild. Turns out, it was just what I needed!
There’s a lot to be said for using your brain in a different way and I really enjoyed re-connecting to my inner six year old and just playing.
Although I don’t think my creations will be winning any prizes, I am actually quite proud of my gingerbread man! He looks pretty dapper and my husband very much enjoyed eating him. It was such good fun trying something new and I’d love to pop back to Katie’s Garden to try more of their food.
So if you’re looking for a party with a difference, then why not pop to Sunderland and explore Katie’s Garden? You won’t regret it!
Have you been to Katie’s Garden? Do you fancy a trip there now?
♥ JH